Ted Turner, the visionary media executive who revolutionized television news by founding CNN and later expanded his empire into sports and entertainment, has died at the age of 87.

Turner launched Cable News Network in 1980, introducing the world’s first 24-hour news channel and forever changing how audiences consume breaking news. What began as a risky venture grew into a global media institution, setting the standard for around-the-clock journalism.

Beyond news, Turner built Turner Broadcasting System into a powerhouse that included networks such as TBS and TNT, while also acquiring major sports properties. He owned the Atlanta Braves, helping elevate the team’s national profile through widespread cable distribution.

Turner also left a significant mark on professional wrestling. In 1988, Turner Broadcasting acquired Jim Crockett Promotions, which was later rebranded as World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Under Turner’s ownership, WCW became a national competitor to WWE, particularly during the 1990s “Monday Night Wars,” when WCW Nitro went head-to-head with WWE programming and, for a time, dominated cable ratings.

Outside of broadcasting, Turner was widely recognized for his philanthropic efforts. He pledged $1 billion to the United Nations in 1997, one of the largest charitable donations in history, and remained an outspoken advocate for environmental conservation through the Turner Foundation.

Turner’s influence on media, sports, and entertainment reshaped the modern television landscape. His creation of CNN alone altered the speed and scope of global news coverage, while his ventures in sports and wrestling helped redefine cable programming.